Market Insights

Market analytics and research by LeaseLock Chief Economist Greg Willett

Welcome to Market Insights by LeaseLock™

In an industry shaped by change, clarity matters. Market Insights by LeaseLock™ is your go-to destination for economic trends and rental housing analytics—all through the lens of industry icon Greg Willett, Chief Economist at LeaseLock.

From shifting renter behaviors and leasing performance to risk indicators and regional trends, we break down what’s happening and what it means for your bottom line. Updated regularly, our insights are designed to keep multifamily professionals, media, and partners informed, empowered, and a step ahead.

Whether you’re shaping investment strategy, refining operations, or reporting on the market, this is where you’ll find the metrics—and the meaning—behind the headlines.

THE LATEST FROM GREG’S DESK

Lease Length Is Growing

Renter retention is rising across the U.S., with over half of apartment renters staying put. Explore what’s driving this trend—and what it means for leasing strategies in 2025.

U.S. High-Paying Job Production Stalls

Renter retention is rising across the U.S., with over half of apartment renters staying put. Explore what’s driving this trend—and what it means for leasing strategies in 2025.

Resident Retention Is Trending Upward

More renters are choosing to stay put. In 2024, 54.6% of U.S. apartment households renewed their leases, with retention climbing even higher in early 2025. Despite a surge in new supply, mobility remains low—especially in Class C units and single-family rentals. This blog breaks down the retention trend, where it's highest, and what operators should expect across segments and markets.

Keep an Eye on Credit Card Debt

Economic uncertainty and fading consumer confidence could pose a risk to housing demand just as peak leasing season arrives. While spending from affluent households continues for now, inflation concerns may reduce mobility and new lease activity—potentially putting pressure on revenue growth. This analysis explores what today’s sentiment signals mean for operators navigating a shifting rental market.

Fading Consumer Confidence Seems Likely to Impact Housing Demand

Consumer confidence is slipping just as leasing season heats up. Discover how inflation fears and economic uncertainty could shape renter behavior and retention in the months ahead.

MEET LEASELOCK’S CHIEF ECONOMIST

Greg Willett serves as Chief Economist at LeaseLock, bringing over 30 years of expertise in multifamily research, economic analysis, and housing market dynamics. In this role, Greg delivers data-driven insights that help rental housing owners and operators navigate shifting market conditions and make informed strategic decisions.

Before joining LeaseLock, Greg was First Vice President and National Director of Multifamily Research for the Institutional Property Advisors division of Marcus & Millichap, where he provided analysis to guide investment strategies, market selection, and capital deployment. Previously, he served as Chief Economist at a leading real estate proptech firm, becoming a trusted voice in multifamily housing performance and forecasting.

A recognized thought leader, Greg’s analysis is frequently featured in national and industry media. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Western Kentucky University and a Master of Liberal Arts degree from Southern Methodist University.